Is "Beethoven's Deafness" the same thing as otosclerosis?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There is controversy around the reason why Beethoven, a musician born in the 1700s, became deaf later in his life. It is not known whether Beethoven had otosclerosis or if his deafness was caused by something else. Reputable medical sources will call otosclerosis by its real name. However, some popular articles or references to people with otosclerosis may use the term "Beethoven's deafness" to refer to otosclerosis.

Continue Learning about Otosclerosis

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Otosclerosis cannot be prevented; the genetic link to developing otosclerosis means that people are ...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

If the person does not have much hearing loss, you may not need to do anything. If hearing loss is i...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There are two main types of tinnitus: subjective and objective. People with subjective tinnitus are ...

Eric E. Smouha, MD

Otosclerosis is usually first detected in the young adult years when the hearing loss first develops...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Otosclerosis

Your ears convert sound waves into electrical impulses and send them to the brain via your nerves, and you interpret these impulses as sound. In otosclerosis, abnormal bone growth interferes with the normal functioning of structures in your ear, which disrupts with the path of sound waves or nerve impulses. This can cause you to lose your hearing, sometimes severely. The type of hearing loss we have depends on what ear structure(s) are affected. No one is sure what causes otosclerosis, but it tends to run in families, and white, middle-age women are most often affected. Some say it is linked to the hormonal changes of pregnancy, whereas others associate it with viral infections (such as measles). If you experience even gradual hearing loss (for instance, if you can't hear someone whispering), dizziness, problems balancing, or a ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus), talk to your ENT (ears, nose, and throat) doctor. You may have otosclerosis.

Learn More